Used Vauxhall Vectra Hatchback 02-09

What's the used Vauxhall Vectra like?

The Vectra is built for covering distance comfortably, not sheer thrils, so you're buying into a car that thrives on strong mid-range shove rather than high-revs.

Even so, the economical 1.8-litre petrol can feel a little slow to pick up speed at times, although the other engines in the range are ready, willing and able.

Overall, the Vectra is well suited to easy-going, everyday driving, particularly on the motorway. It's a company car favourite, after all, and will plough on all day long at the national limit without disturbing the hush in the cabin.

The suspension will also shake off lumps and bumps competently, and its handling marks a real improvement on the older Vectra's. However, again it's competent rather than class-leading, and the electronic steering on some cars is short of feedback.

Still, the cabin is well laid out, roomy (fitting five adults is no problem) and shows some Audi-like quality. The driving position is excellent and the boot is a match for the Mondeo's.